We Were Meant to be: Do Implicit Theories of Relationships and Perceived Partner Fit Help Explain Post‐Relationship Contact and Tracking Behaviors Following a Breakup?

ABSTRACT Those experiencing relationship termination often report using efforts to contact and/or track their ex‐partner, frequently with the intent of re‐establishing connection. Implicit beliefs about relationships as being predestined (destiny beliefs) or requiring cultivation for success (growth beliefs) appear to be linked to concepts of partner fit and attempts to re‐establish connection. Combining findings across four studies, this mixed‐methods research explored how beliefs about relationships and perceptions of partner fit were linked to post‐relationship contact and tracking (PRCT). Study 1 demonstrated that stronger endorsement of destiny (but not growth) beliefs was linked to recall of higher levels of PRCT. Study 2 replicated these findings and indicated that partner fit moderated the link between destiny beliefs and PRCT. Using an experimental design, Studies 3 and 4 showed it was possible to manipulate anticipated use of PRCT, particularly destiny beliefs. This work adds information to our understanding of how relationship beliefs impact adjustment following relationship loss, with implications for those supporting individuals in distress and highlighting the possibility of altering destiny beliefs to improve adjustment.